Trump decision hurts Muslims around world: Ghani office

KABUL (Pajhwok): Afghanistan has communicated its profound concern through diplomatic channels to the American leadership over their decision of moving the US embassy to Jerusalem and officially recognizing the contested city as Israel’s capital, the Presidential Palace said on Saturday.

A statement from the Presidential Palace said the Kabul administration conveyed its concern about the US decision by understanding the deep concerns of the Afghan Muslim nation and the Muslim world.

The statement said the US announcement had hurt the feelings of Muslims around the world and would jeopardize the peace process in the Middle East.

“Therefore, any kind of actions taken unilaterally and without engagement of Palestine will not produce positive results,” it added.

It said the National Unity Government and the Afghan Muslim nation together with Muslims of the world wanted the right of Palestinians for an independent state to be ensured.

“The status of Jerusalem, which has been the first Qiblah for the Muslims, and is of high respect and importance for other religions as well, shall be recognized, in accordance with International Laws, resolutions of the United Nations and demands of the Muslim world.”

It further added: “Fortunately, there is an international consensus that a unilateral decision can’t be made on Jerusalem and that a permanent solution to the issue should be sought in a comprehensive peace framework.”

In order to ensure enduring and fair peace in Palestine, the unity government promised to continuously support this process in partnership with Islamic world and the international community under the framework of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the United Nations, it concluded.

US President Donald Trump three days ago announced recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, triggering an almost universal diplomatic backlash.

Trump also ordered the shifting of the US Embassy in Tel Aviv to the contested city of Jerusalem.

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas has rejected the US decision as unacceptable, saying Jerusalem would remain the capital of Palestine.

The decision sparked protests all over the world. Thousands of people in Afghan cities also staged protest rallies against the recent remarks by President Trump.

The status of Jerusalem is deeply sensitive for Muslims, and protesters have been taking to the streets in cities across the world following the policy shift.

Trump's decision puts him at odds with the international community, which insists the issue can only be resolved through negotiations.